The Smolyan Lakes Eco-trail
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About
In the central Rhodope mountains, near Smolyan, lie 7 beautiful lakes. This trail will take us on a journey to the three highest-situated ones located just under Snezhanka peak.
Highlights
• Enjoy the beautiful scenery and rejuvenating air in the Smolyan area
• Sit down and relax near the banks of the Grassy lake
• Hike to the Clear lake
• See the Murky lake and the unusual trees nearby
Description
There used to be 20 lakes strewn across the valley of the Cherna river, but over the centuries most of them have dried up or turned into swamps. Today, 7 remain.
Just before the road to the lift leading up to Snezhanka peak, we turn left and head towards the first and largest of the three lakes – the Grassy lake. This area is popular amongst nature-lovers, and the smell of barbecue and the sound of campers enjoying a nice day surrounded by nature is the first indication that we’re on the right track. Amidst a clearing is a small chapel that is sometimes open during the weekend.
The second lake, called the Clear lake, is further down the path. Past the second lake is where the terrain starts getting steeper, but the beauty of the forest more than makes up for it. There are wooden handrails and bridges along the way to ease the trek.
Not much farther, and we reach the third lake – the Murky lake, named for its murky waters that look almost black in some places. At 4.5 m, it is the deepest of the three lakes, and the highest situated – 1500 m above sea level.
Along the trail we’ll also see the unusually shaped trees “Eurydice’s Throne” and “Orpheus’s Lyre”. Eurydice’s Throne is actually several trees, which at their base come together in the shape of a throne, and Orpheus’s Lyre splits into three, akin to a lyre. At the end of the trail there are benches where we’ll be able to sit, rest and enjoy the view and ambience of the area.
Price per person
• For a group of 6 or more: 30 €
• For a group of 2-5: 50 €
• For individual tourists: 80 €
Inclusions/ exclusions
The price includes
• Mountain guide
• Transfers from Plovdiv to the starting point of the trail
Notes
This trail is light, suitable for people of all ages and just perfect for a nice family trip.
Hiking
Смолян, България
Starting point - Plovdiv, Bulgaria
3 hours
Spring
Mountain guide in English
Maxiumum number of participants - 10 people
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